Shallow M6.0 earthquake hits Banda Sea, Timor-Leste

The epicenter was located 217 km (135 miles) NNE of Lospalos (population 17 186), 234 km (145 miles) NNE of Baukau (population 16 000), 254 km (158 miles) NNE of Venilale (population 16 000), 299 km (186 miles) NE of Dili (population 150 000), and 314 km (195 miles) NE of Aileu (population 17 356), Timor-Leste.

54 000 people are estimated to have felt weak shaking and 29 000 light shaking.

The USGS issued a Green alert for shaking-related fatalities and economic losses. There is a low likelihood of casualties and damage. Overall, the population in this region resides in structures that are vulnerable to earthquake shaking, though resistant structures exist.

The predominant vulnerable building types are unreinforced brick with concrete floor and precast concrete frame with wall construction. Recent earthquakes in this area have caused secondary hazards such as landslides that might have contributed to losses.

Estimated population exposure to earthquake shaking

Regional seismicity

References:

¹ M6.0 earthquake Banda Sea, Timor Leste – USGS – August 24, 2026

² M6.0 earthquake Banda Sea, Timor Leste – EMSC – August 24, 2026

Rishav Kothari

I am an Assistant Editor and Severe Weather & Science Journalist at The Watchers, specializing in real-time severe weather coverage, geophysical event reporting, and research-driven scientific analysis. You can reach me at rishav(at)watchers(.)news.

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